So, I have been cutting out coupons and looking up how to save money at the grocery store online. I even made a binder and put a lot of the coupons I had clipped into it before the trip. I felt really prepared. Once I got to Kroger, where Lucas and I decided we would like to make our 'home' grocery store, I started seeing lots of things that I had coupons for BUT that's where this blog comes in. Lucas and I also really love Aldi's. Over the next several weeks I plan to really compare individual items and totals at each store to help me determine where to go for which item. Here is my itemized list of total cost of each item and grand total before and after taxes.
Loaf of Kroger Bread...................................1.00
Scott Bath Tissue (12 rolls)...........................8.99
Pretzels.........................................................2.49 X 2
Bananas........................................................1.54
Turkey Deli...................................................2.79
Spring Mix....................................................1.99
Carrots, Canned............................................0.54
Chicken Tenderloins......................................2.83
Chicken Tenderloins......................................3.35
Corn, Canned...............................................1.45
Sweet Tea (2 bottles)....................................3.18
Corn, Canned...............................................0.88
Corn, Canned...............................................0.80
Cheese.........................................................1.09
Snack Well's Bars........................................2.75 X 2
Pop Tarts.....................................................1.66 X 3
Bologna........................................................1.79
Red Grapes..................................................3.19
Biscuits.........................................................0.56
Monster Energy............................................1.00 X 5
Frozen Yogurt...............................................2.50
Tuna Family Packs........................................3.49 X2
Raisin Bran....................................................2.73
Lucky Charms...............................................3.92
Tortilla Wraps................................................2.49
Honey Nut Cheerios......................................2.74
Grand Total..................................................86.83
Minus Taxes.................................................79.76
Now, since I bought all of the supplies for a sandwich, I am going to calculate what one turkey sandwich would cost me.
2 slices of bread.......................0.10
4 slices of turkey......................0.20
1 slice of cheese......................0.07
Total.......................................0.37
That is pretty awesome!! I have been taking a turkey sandwich with a snack pack of Pringles that I believe cost me $0.14 each meaning my lunch has been costing me $0.51 everyday. Niceeeeee.
Until next time...
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
OT shadowing, Day 5 & Other News
Shadowing:
Kids get botox!! Yup, I've learned here that it is true that children who have problems with their joints and their joints not flexing or extending to the appropriate degree may be given botox injections in order to increase the flexibility there. I was definitely unaware of this practice before shadowing here. Often time, botox combined with casting really helps kids to reach new degrees in flexion and extension of their limbs.
Today, for one of the hours that I shadowed, I observed a woman that seemed very similar to me personality-wise. She was over-excitatory but I could tell that she thoroughly enjoyed what she was doing. I feel like the way that she worked with her patient is very similar to the way that I will work with my patient's in the future because I'm not a really loud person and I like a good combination and fun and seriousness. It was nice to see someone that I feel works like I do because it gives me an assurance that there are people with VERY similar characteristics as me in this field. Basically, it was a little confidence booster that I can be successful in this career with the personality that I have. :)
In Other News:
Lucas and I are transitioning very nicely into living together. I am actually quite surprised. I can see now that us being apart is the trunk of a lot of our arguements. It's very hard on my emotionally whenever we're apart and now looking back, I see that I take a lot of that emotion out on him on the occasion that we do get to see each other because I know it is going to end.
Anywho, we have been sharing ALL responsibilities. From cooking to trash to dishes to driving to work in the morning. It has been very nice knowing that he is just as willing to have an egalitarian relationship as I am. It's a great relief knowing that I will be able to rely on him when I need to in the future! :)
THIS WEEKEND: Lucas and I are going to meet with friends at the Good Guys Car Show at LP Field and spend the day there. I'm really excited because it was a lot of fun last year and it gives him and opportunity to spend time with his friends. I also enjoy spending time with Haven and Broady. They're a great couple to go on double dates with.
Also, on Sunday, we have plans to go to a Nature Area in the Brentwood area and take a picnic with us which will be really nice. Hopefully we'll go to church somewhere too. I think we both really need it AND we really need to start looking for a church home so that we'll have somewhere to attend after we get married and while I'm in graduate school.
Since this blog has been rather lengthy, I'll think I'll close now BUT before I go I want to leave you with this wonderful recipe that Lucas and I had last night. Butternut Squash, Spinach and Black Bean Enchiladas--They were delicious!!!
Enchilada Recipe
Hope you enjoy! ~Megan
Kids get botox!! Yup, I've learned here that it is true that children who have problems with their joints and their joints not flexing or extending to the appropriate degree may be given botox injections in order to increase the flexibility there. I was definitely unaware of this practice before shadowing here. Often time, botox combined with casting really helps kids to reach new degrees in flexion and extension of their limbs.
Today, for one of the hours that I shadowed, I observed a woman that seemed very similar to me personality-wise. She was over-excitatory but I could tell that she thoroughly enjoyed what she was doing. I feel like the way that she worked with her patient is very similar to the way that I will work with my patient's in the future because I'm not a really loud person and I like a good combination and fun and seriousness. It was nice to see someone that I feel works like I do because it gives me an assurance that there are people with VERY similar characteristics as me in this field. Basically, it was a little confidence booster that I can be successful in this career with the personality that I have. :)
In Other News:
Lucas and I are transitioning very nicely into living together. I am actually quite surprised. I can see now that us being apart is the trunk of a lot of our arguements. It's very hard on my emotionally whenever we're apart and now looking back, I see that I take a lot of that emotion out on him on the occasion that we do get to see each other because I know it is going to end.
Anywho, we have been sharing ALL responsibilities. From cooking to trash to dishes to driving to work in the morning. It has been very nice knowing that he is just as willing to have an egalitarian relationship as I am. It's a great relief knowing that I will be able to rely on him when I need to in the future! :)
THIS WEEKEND: Lucas and I are going to meet with friends at the Good Guys Car Show at LP Field and spend the day there. I'm really excited because it was a lot of fun last year and it gives him and opportunity to spend time with his friends. I also enjoy spending time with Haven and Broady. They're a great couple to go on double dates with.
Also, on Sunday, we have plans to go to a Nature Area in the Brentwood area and take a picnic with us which will be really nice. Hopefully we'll go to church somewhere too. I think we both really need it AND we really need to start looking for a church home so that we'll have somewhere to attend after we get married and while I'm in graduate school.
Since this blog has been rather lengthy, I'll think I'll close now BUT before I go I want to leave you with this wonderful recipe that Lucas and I had last night. Butternut Squash, Spinach and Black Bean Enchiladas--They were delicious!!!
Enchilada Recipe
Hope you enjoy! ~Megan
Sunday, May 13, 2012
Just Another Day in the Life of Me
Howdy! This girl is tired so this post may be rather short but I had a moment and thought that I would post.
953---Lucas tells me to remember that. He's fiercely working trying to get ahead before his work week starts.
Today was Mother's Day and I spent the better part of my day with my momma. Boy do I love her! She and dad have been two of the most supportive people in my life. They're ALWAYS there believing in me, supporting me and pushing me to better myself no matter the situation.
On Thursday night, I went to Willisburg, KY and camped out with Cathy, Amanda, and Clare until Saturday. It was a lot of fun and a great kick-off to the summer. I cooked burgers over a fire which I was really proud of!!
When I got back home on Saturday, I went to the movies with my mom, Katelyn and Kevin to see Dark Shadows. Saturday evening, Lucas and I went to class night to see his brother walk out!
Today, I ate at Ryan's with the family, Granny, Papa, Kevin, Wanda, Roger, Ricky, and Zach. It was really enjoyable although I ate way too much! I cannot go to all-you-can-eat buffets! Then, dad sent us (me, Kat and Mom) into Harbor Freight to look for tools. That was a site and a half. I was laughing the whole way and I'm pretty sure everyone else in the store was slightly amused too. Afterwards, we went to visit Granny and Papa and they had newborn kittys that were born outside their house. They were adorable!!
Now, I'm sitting on the couch with Lucas while he completes some work he's been trying to finish. Hopefully in the next few days I'll get to post some pictures of some of these adventures!! :)
Have a wonderful night and I'll try to as well!
953---Lucas tells me to remember that. He's fiercely working trying to get ahead before his work week starts.
Today was Mother's Day and I spent the better part of my day with my momma. Boy do I love her! She and dad have been two of the most supportive people in my life. They're ALWAYS there believing in me, supporting me and pushing me to better myself no matter the situation.
On Thursday night, I went to Willisburg, KY and camped out with Cathy, Amanda, and Clare until Saturday. It was a lot of fun and a great kick-off to the summer. I cooked burgers over a fire which I was really proud of!!
When I got back home on Saturday, I went to the movies with my mom, Katelyn and Kevin to see Dark Shadows. Saturday evening, Lucas and I went to class night to see his brother walk out!
Today, I ate at Ryan's with the family, Granny, Papa, Kevin, Wanda, Roger, Ricky, and Zach. It was really enjoyable although I ate way too much! I cannot go to all-you-can-eat buffets! Then, dad sent us (me, Kat and Mom) into Harbor Freight to look for tools. That was a site and a half. I was laughing the whole way and I'm pretty sure everyone else in the store was slightly amused too. Afterwards, we went to visit Granny and Papa and they had newborn kittys that were born outside their house. They were adorable!!
Now, I'm sitting on the couch with Lucas while he completes some work he's been trying to finish. Hopefully in the next few days I'll get to post some pictures of some of these adventures!! :)
Have a wonderful night and I'll try to as well!
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Things that I have learned over the past few days
Since this experience (shadowing) is helping me to determine a big portion of my life I think that I should document it pretty thoroughly. That's why I'm posting again. Plus, right now, there's some downtime at the clinic to do so. Here are a few things that I have learned:
1. SOAP----Subjective: Who brought the child, who the child was, etc.
Objective: What did you do during the session. # of push-ups, # of steps taken, distance walking, etc. Contains numbers. Address each goal that you worked towards.
Assessment: How did the child do compared to the last time, how are they progressing in their goals
Plan: What do you plan to do in the future to continue working towards meeting the goals?
2. ADL-----Activities of daily living: A lot of patients work on skills that they can use in their day-to-day life like buttoning their pants, tying their shoes, using the bathroom on their own, etc. There is an ADL room here in the clinic that is specifically used for working on these skills. It's pretty amazing.
3. OT's cast and splint which I was not aware of prior to shadowing here. It's not a requirement but with training a person can.
4. Vanderbilt inparticularly does their very best, from what I have seen so far, to ensure that the treatment they are giving the patients is covered by their insurance so that they pay the minimum amount. It's a really great practice in my opinion since I come from a low-income family that doesn't have that extra money to spend on medical costs. Also, in my hometown, this isn't a common practice at the facilities that I have been to. (Vision care and dental care) Regardless of whether it was covered by insurance or not, they did the treatment that they wanted to do without confronting me or my parents first which is essentially unacceptable for the population that those facilities are serving.
I'll add more later.
1. SOAP----Subjective: Who brought the child, who the child was, etc.
Objective: What did you do during the session. # of push-ups, # of steps taken, distance walking, etc. Contains numbers. Address each goal that you worked towards.
Assessment: How did the child do compared to the last time, how are they progressing in their goals
Plan: What do you plan to do in the future to continue working towards meeting the goals?
2. ADL-----Activities of daily living: A lot of patients work on skills that they can use in their day-to-day life like buttoning their pants, tying their shoes, using the bathroom on their own, etc. There is an ADL room here in the clinic that is specifically used for working on these skills. It's pretty amazing.
3. OT's cast and splint which I was not aware of prior to shadowing here. It's not a requirement but with training a person can.
4. Vanderbilt inparticularly does their very best, from what I have seen so far, to ensure that the treatment they are giving the patients is covered by their insurance so that they pay the minimum amount. It's a really great practice in my opinion since I come from a low-income family that doesn't have that extra money to spend on medical costs. Also, in my hometown, this isn't a common practice at the facilities that I have been to. (Vision care and dental care) Regardless of whether it was covered by insurance or not, they did the treatment that they wanted to do without confronting me or my parents first which is essentially unacceptable for the population that those facilities are serving.
I'll add more later.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Shadowing at Vanderbilt Pediatric Rehabilitation Center
The past two days I have been shadowing perdiatric OTs at Vanderbilt to get a feel of what it's like to work in pediatrics compared to geriatrics and to see what OTs actually do particularly in a hospital setting. Some things that I have seen that I really like are:
1. OTs here wear scrubs!! This is exciting for me because I don't really like to dress up and I thought that they might wear slacks and flats with a blouse which really isn't my style. I prefer comfort over cute.
2. It's a very goal-based career. Basically, the OT sets goals with the child and parents for every 3 months or so. Those are the goals that the OT works on for the 3 months following making them. After those 3 months, the goals are evaluated and either will continue to be worked on or will be checked off as accomplished. From talking with different staff members, it seems like there are normally 3-4 goals that are made for each time frame.
3. The one-on-one work. I definitely prefer to work one-on-one or in small groups with people rather than in large groups and OT definitely does that. So far, I have only shadowed in 1-on-1 groups and I'm fairly sure that's all they do here since each patient is working on specific goals.
4. The is such a variety in the work that the OTs do. I've witnessed casting sessions, sessions that focused on strengthening muscles, working on fine motor skills, sensory, ADL (activities of daily living), balance and coordination. Also, every patient is different. They have various diagnoses, a variety of cognitive abilities and each parent interaction is different which is something that I will enjoy. Also, as an OT, if you get bored with a specific area of the work or don't feel that it's your strong suit, you can focus on something else.
5. They get to be active with their patients! This is one of my favorite things about the career! I am a restless person and don't like to be coped up at a desk all day. As an OT, I would get to be out in a session for an hour or two, then come back to my desk and make notes for a little while.
6. Also, the scheduling seems to be semi-flexible which can be important in the case of emergencies although I rarely to never miss work.
7. It's a very practical career where the results are clear. That's important for me because when I see that a patient is making progress, I will feel that we as a team have done something worthwhile. Being able to check goals off will be just as if not more exciting for me as it will be for the patient knowing that my tactics are being effective and that the patient is gaining a better quality of life and is able to become more independent.
8. As far as the benefits of working with kids compared to other patient populations, children games and activities can be more exciting and the kids are more likely to comply and get excited about the activities from what I have seen so far. They seem to be more motivated to accomplish the goals because they are still really hopeful about their future whereas in the nursing home setting, I think that not complying or not trying could be a problem because the patients have lost hope that their health is going to improve.
That's all I can think of at the moment. If any more things come to mind, I will be sure to add them.
1. OTs here wear scrubs!! This is exciting for me because I don't really like to dress up and I thought that they might wear slacks and flats with a blouse which really isn't my style. I prefer comfort over cute.
2. It's a very goal-based career. Basically, the OT sets goals with the child and parents for every 3 months or so. Those are the goals that the OT works on for the 3 months following making them. After those 3 months, the goals are evaluated and either will continue to be worked on or will be checked off as accomplished. From talking with different staff members, it seems like there are normally 3-4 goals that are made for each time frame.
3. The one-on-one work. I definitely prefer to work one-on-one or in small groups with people rather than in large groups and OT definitely does that. So far, I have only shadowed in 1-on-1 groups and I'm fairly sure that's all they do here since each patient is working on specific goals.
4. The is such a variety in the work that the OTs do. I've witnessed casting sessions, sessions that focused on strengthening muscles, working on fine motor skills, sensory, ADL (activities of daily living), balance and coordination. Also, every patient is different. They have various diagnoses, a variety of cognitive abilities and each parent interaction is different which is something that I will enjoy. Also, as an OT, if you get bored with a specific area of the work or don't feel that it's your strong suit, you can focus on something else.
5. They get to be active with their patients! This is one of my favorite things about the career! I am a restless person and don't like to be coped up at a desk all day. As an OT, I would get to be out in a session for an hour or two, then come back to my desk and make notes for a little while.
6. Also, the scheduling seems to be semi-flexible which can be important in the case of emergencies although I rarely to never miss work.
7. It's a very practical career where the results are clear. That's important for me because when I see that a patient is making progress, I will feel that we as a team have done something worthwhile. Being able to check goals off will be just as if not more exciting for me as it will be for the patient knowing that my tactics are being effective and that the patient is gaining a better quality of life and is able to become more independent.
8. As far as the benefits of working with kids compared to other patient populations, children games and activities can be more exciting and the kids are more likely to comply and get excited about the activities from what I have seen so far. They seem to be more motivated to accomplish the goals because they are still really hopeful about their future whereas in the nursing home setting, I think that not complying or not trying could be a problem because the patients have lost hope that their health is going to improve.
That's all I can think of at the moment. If any more things come to mind, I will be sure to add them.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Quote to keep forever
"I see what I do to see what I believe."
---Sister Helen Prejean
She was a convocation speaker earlier this year and I didn't want to lose this quote because I feel like it is the essence of why I have such a difficult time figuring out what I want to do with my life. I want my life to exemplify my morals and values. I'm on the journey to figuring that life out.
---Sister Helen Prejean
She was a convocation speaker earlier this year and I didn't want to lose this quote because I feel like it is the essence of why I have such a difficult time figuring out what I want to do with my life. I want my life to exemplify my morals and values. I'm on the journey to figuring that life out.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
Summer 2012
Sooo, I have just completed my plans for the summer! Here they are:
May 7-18: Shadowing an occupational therapist at Vanderbilt University
May 22-August 3: Working at Camp Widjiwagan as an equestrian staff member!
August 6-10: Hopefully more shadowing
August 13-21: R&R before returning to Berea
Also, I will be taking two summer courses while working at Camp--developmental psychology and medical terminology.
I have a full summer ahead of me but I'm sure it will also be a rewarding one. I am beyond thankful for the experiences that I will have this summer and I haven't even had them yet. Hope everyone else's summer is working out just as nicely for them!
Other great news--I have completed my hopeful schedule for the fall and spring of next year! The way things are looking I'll be able to graduate in December 2013 with a B.A. in Psychology!
Until next time...
-Megan
May 7-18: Shadowing an occupational therapist at Vanderbilt University
May 22-August 3: Working at Camp Widjiwagan as an equestrian staff member!
August 6-10: Hopefully more shadowing
August 13-21: R&R before returning to Berea
Also, I will be taking two summer courses while working at Camp--developmental psychology and medical terminology.
I have a full summer ahead of me but I'm sure it will also be a rewarding one. I am beyond thankful for the experiences that I will have this summer and I haven't even had them yet. Hope everyone else's summer is working out just as nicely for them!
Other great news--I have completed my hopeful schedule for the fall and spring of next year! The way things are looking I'll be able to graduate in December 2013 with a B.A. in Psychology!
Until next time...
-Megan
Monday, March 19, 2012
Graduate School
Today I was looking at graduate programs for occupational therapy in case I don't make the cut at Belmont. Boy is there so many to choose from and boy are they so expensive! What a stressful time! Plus, the likelihood of graduate assistantships isn't looking to good in the profession of OT. Seems like there aren't many being offered out there. BUT I still have over a year to go. That's all for now! Hope everyone has an amazing day!
Adios!
Adios!
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
In the future
So far, I have spent much of my spring break, which officially began on Monday, planning and preparing for several upcoming major changed in my life.
First, I have had two camp interviews already. One on Saturday and one on Monday. I think both of them went really well. The camps are very different but I believe that I would truly enjoy both of them because I'll be working with kids and getting to spend the summer outdoors! I should here back from both of them before April. In case you're interested, here are their links:
Camp Widjiwagan
Whippoorwill Farm Day Camp
Second, Lucas and I have been discussing where exactly we want to live once we get married and have been looking at the cost of living for several communities that we are considering. As of now, he will either still be working at the West End location or they will be moving to a location in Cool Springs. Both of those areas are out of our price range as far as COL(cost of living) goes. I will most likely not have a job during the terms that I am in graduate school therefore the only income that I will be bringing in is during the summer months. We're look at some areas just outside of Nashville including Lebanon and just north of Nolensville. It's too exciting!!
Third, as soon as I press 'Publish Post' I am going to being studying for my classes. If I plan to be an occupational therapist, I need to get in gear and start studying hard for anatomy. I must make an A in there! School can be stressful but I am getting better and better at managing the stress that comes with it! I'm thankful for that.
Next, I have been checking out schools that I might potentially go to when I graduate from Berea. So far, they are the same as what I found during my previous searching venture. The two programs I am really interested in are the doctorate program for occupational therapy at Belmont University or the higher education administration program at Vanderbilt. My backup plan if I don't get accepted into either one of those is the occupational therapy program at Tennessee State University. It isn't a ranked program, which worries me but if worst comes to worst, I may apply there. If anyone knows about there program, please inform me!
Last, I have been reviewing blogs of current OTs. Some of them have been blogging since they were in graduate school. I think Berea is hard. Ha! This girl had a radical stack of books and was talking about the overwhelming stress that she experienced. That's fine with me. I'm used to it. BUT I am going to have to learn new time management skills because having my own place and meals to cook and a husband to distract me will make sitting down to seriously study much harder. Also, I love Lucas to death but since he didn't really go to school he hasn't grasped how thoroughly I need to know the material for the exams. That's something we're going to have to work on in order for me to be successful!
1 New Item on the Want List:
This book is by a man with Asperger's. He talks about different experiences that he had growing up. He has been a keynote speaker for many conferences. I believe that I would really enjoy this book and I hope to read it over the summer! Also, if you're interested, he has a blog: http://jerobison.blogspot.com/
That's all I've got for now folks! I may post back later since I've got lots of free time this week!
First, I have had two camp interviews already. One on Saturday and one on Monday. I think both of them went really well. The camps are very different but I believe that I would truly enjoy both of them because I'll be working with kids and getting to spend the summer outdoors! I should here back from both of them before April. In case you're interested, here are their links:
Camp Widjiwagan
Whippoorwill Farm Day Camp
Second, Lucas and I have been discussing where exactly we want to live once we get married and have been looking at the cost of living for several communities that we are considering. As of now, he will either still be working at the West End location or they will be moving to a location in Cool Springs. Both of those areas are out of our price range as far as COL(cost of living) goes. I will most likely not have a job during the terms that I am in graduate school therefore the only income that I will be bringing in is during the summer months. We're look at some areas just outside of Nashville including Lebanon and just north of Nolensville. It's too exciting!!
Third, as soon as I press 'Publish Post' I am going to being studying for my classes. If I plan to be an occupational therapist, I need to get in gear and start studying hard for anatomy. I must make an A in there! School can be stressful but I am getting better and better at managing the stress that comes with it! I'm thankful for that.
Next, I have been checking out schools that I might potentially go to when I graduate from Berea. So far, they are the same as what I found during my previous searching venture. The two programs I am really interested in are the doctorate program for occupational therapy at Belmont University or the higher education administration program at Vanderbilt. My backup plan if I don't get accepted into either one of those is the occupational therapy program at Tennessee State University. It isn't a ranked program, which worries me but if worst comes to worst, I may apply there. If anyone knows about there program, please inform me!
Last, I have been reviewing blogs of current OTs. Some of them have been blogging since they were in graduate school. I think Berea is hard. Ha! This girl had a radical stack of books and was talking about the overwhelming stress that she experienced. That's fine with me. I'm used to it. BUT I am going to have to learn new time management skills because having my own place and meals to cook and a husband to distract me will make sitting down to seriously study much harder. Also, I love Lucas to death but since he didn't really go to school he hasn't grasped how thoroughly I need to know the material for the exams. That's something we're going to have to work on in order for me to be successful!
1 New Item on the Want List:
This book is by a man with Asperger's. He talks about different experiences that he had growing up. He has been a keynote speaker for many conferences. I believe that I would really enjoy this book and I hope to read it over the summer! Also, if you're interested, he has a blog: http://jerobison.blogspot.com/
That's all I've got for now folks! I may post back later since I've got lots of free time this week!
Monday, March 5, 2012
Truths about Dating a Techie
This is an article I found by Emily Hambidge on this blog. It is hilariously similar to some of the things that I experience with Lucas so I thought I'd share. At least I know I'm not alone. As Emily conveys in her post, dating a techie can have its I-want-to-pluck-my-hairs-out-one-by-one moments but, overall, I wouldn't have it any other way.
I like to think that behind every good developer there is a good woman. No. A great woman. It takes a special breed to put up with the stuff that comes along with dating a computer nerd. Those of you who have ever been with a hard core geek know what I’m talking about. Some day I think it would be easier to date one of those guys who hangs out at the golf course all day with his buddies drinking beer.
This weekend I drove up from Nashville to see Justin. I knew he was busy with a Web development project, but I have dealt with that stuff before so it was no big deal. This particular project was for the Rails Day contest. This contest went from midnight on Friday to midnight on Saturday. While he was working I did some MacZealots work, caught up on sleep, cleaned the apartment and did the laundry. While I was folding some shirts I got to thinking about what life with a developer is like. I thought I would share my thoughts with you.
I started pondering this while I was doing the laundry because I noticed that 9 out of the 10 t-shirts I was folding were development or Mac related. Just to give you a general idea of what I’m talking about (and the embarrassment I have to deal with when we go out in public) let me describe a few of them. First, I ran across one that read “Steve Jobs is my homeboy.” Then there was the one that said “I am blogging this.” Next was a WWDC 2004 polo and an Apple Developer Connection shirt. And my personal favorite was the one that said “Code Different.” I couldn’t make this up if I tried.
I am used to all this stuff, and I adore Justin because of it, but what about girls who aren’t used to this sort of thing? What about the poor innocent souls who think they are getting a normal guy and then come to find out he has been sucked into the chaotic world of development? What about the little girls who dream of Prince Charming and end up with Steve Ballmer? What about the girls who never even dreamed they would know who Steve Ballmer is? I think someone needs to offer them a little advice. Seeing that I am a seasoned professional who has been dating a developer since I was 15, I think there is no one better than me to show them the way.
Following are 10 things you need to know when dating a developer (or any kind of techie.)
1. **When projects have a deadline approaching, all plans are tentative.**
I don’t care if your sister is getting married or your grandmother dies. If your man has a project with a quickly approaching deadline forget about him being there. This has nothing to do with lack of support, and it is by no means a jab at the guys. It is simply a matter of dedication. I have tried setting alarms, e-mail alerts, etc. Don’t even waste your time. And try to be understanding when situations like this arise. If you’re supportive and that application or piece of software takes off chances are you’ll get a nice date for all your patience.
2. **Your body/sex appeal are nothing compared to the power of a processor.**
The nice thing about most computer boys is that they don’t typically check out other women. The downside of this is that they don’t notice the other women because they are too busy checking out people’s cell phones and iPods. When it comes to boys and their toys your short mini skirt just can’t compare. Trust me - I have learned this the hard way. Anytime Justin and I set foot in the Apple Store I see the way his eyes light up when he sees a shiny new G5. I see his jaw hit the ground when new operating systems are released. I run after him in my sexy heels as he sprints to be the first one in line to buy a new piece of software. It’s sick and twisted really, but it comes with the territory. I know what you are thinking. Sex. That will turn any guys head, right? Nope! Sorry ladies, it just isn’t going to work. Unless you are sporting a lacy black teddy with an Apple logo on the crotch you really don’t have a chance if there is a project in the works. The plus side of this is that you could probably roll around in his sheets with Brad Pitt and he wouldn’t notice. Seriously, though, this doesn’t mean you aren’t sexy or desirable. I don’t know what it does mean - I’m still trying to figure that out for myself - but rest assured he still loves you.
3. **You will NEVER be the Apple of his eye.**
Ha! Get it? Apple. I’m so funny.
4. **Profanity is his friend.**
You have to learn to put on your earmuffs when it comes to watching him work. I know. You want to be supportive and sit in his office offering kind words of encouragement. Go right ahead! Just be prepared for his response to be something about the $4000 piece of shit computer that isn’t going fast enough or the mother f’ing code that doesn’t work right.
5. **If you love him you will be standing by with a lot of caffeine.**
Red Bull. Bawls. Mountain Dew. Whatever it takes. He is going to need it. The late night brainstorming sessions and all-night coding marathons require some fuel. Nothing would mean more than you showing up on his doorstep with 64 ounces of goodness.
6. **There is no rest for the weary.**
Plan on going to bed alone and waking up alone. Well, unless your bed is right next to the computer, I guess. I have occasionally found Justin in the wee hours of the morning with his head resting on the computer, but that’s the most sleep he’ll get when he is working on something. To be a developer I think you also have to be a perfectionist. This means until every bit of code is complete and flawless he’ll be staring at the computer screen.
7. **Rubies and Pearls are not what you think.**
I once overheard Justin having a conversation with a friend of ours. He made mention of a ruby and a pearl. Seeing as how it was almost my birthday I immediately thought I was in for a great gift. Little did I know they were talking about Ruby on Rails and Perl. Later that week we went out for a Sunday afternoon drive. There is a jewelry store just across the street from the local Barnes and Noble. I, of course, thought we were pulling in to buy some bling. 30 minutes and two O’Reilly books later I figured out that my “birthday gift” was actually how-to manuals for programming languages.
8. **One screen is never enough.**
When Justin first told me he thought he needed not one but two flat-screen monitors I thought he had finally started drinking. What on earth would require two screens? Now he is talking about getting a third! Oddly enough, when I glance over at him grinding away he has both 17 inches covered. So when he says he needs bigger this or better that, just go with it. At least you know he won’t be cheap when it comes to other things.
9. **if (loveBoyfriend = 1 ) {learn();}**
I always thought this coding, development stuff was just nonsense. Then I learned a little bit about it and realized it’s actually very cool. Sometimes I can even offer a little help. The other day Justin spent hours working on something for work. He just couldn’t figure out why it wasn’t coming together. In a spat of frustration he showed me what he was working on. Miraculously, I was able to find the problem. I think it was the proudest he had ever been of me.
10. **There is nothing like being the one there when he completes something new.**
I can honestly say it’s the greatest feeling in the world to be the one there when Justin gets out of the chair (for the first time in weeks) and is beaming at me (through red, puffy eyes) and dying to show me his newest creation. Somewhere between the annoying profanity and the lack of sleep he created something wonderful. So when you get frustrated with him just remember that maybe he’s working on the next Movable Type-ish phenomenon. Wouldn’t you love to be the girl behind the guy on the cover of Macworld?
It looks like Justin is about done with his Rails project. I’m gonna go curl up on the couch and watch a movie with him. And as I fall asleep tonight I’ll thank my lucky stars that my boyfriend is a crazy Apple Developer - the greatest guys in the world. I love you, sweetie.
Ladies, next time you go looking for a man, don’t check out the local bar scene. Think Different.
By the way Lucas, if you happen to read this, I apologize in advance that all the references are to Apple. To make up for it,
That's a wrap for today. Salut.
Friday, February 24, 2012
Short and sweet
Just some quotes I found will stumbling...
Love is like pi -- natural, irrational, and very important.
-Lisa Hoffman
Love is a friendship caught on fire.
-Northern Exposure
I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where.
I love you straightforwardly, without complexities
or pride; so I love you because I knew no other
way than this, where 'I' does not exist, nor 'you'.
So close that your hand on my chest is my hand, so
close that your eyes close as I fall asleep....Pablo Neruda
www.psychologytoday.com/collections/201107/best-july/10-truths-keep-your-relationship-healthy/
That's all for now folks.
Exam time for me...
Adios!
Love is like pi -- natural, irrational, and very important.
-Lisa Hoffman
Love is a friendship caught on fire.
-Northern Exposure
I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where.
I love you straightforwardly, without complexities
or pride; so I love you because I knew no other
way than this, where 'I' does not exist, nor 'you'.
So close that your hand on my chest is my hand, so
close that your eyes close as I fall asleep....Pablo Neruda
www.psychologytoday.com/collections/201107/best-july/10-truths-keep-your-relationship-healthy/
That's all for now folks.
Exam time for me...
Adios!
Friday, February 17, 2012
Needs a direction in life...
Depressed? Yes. Stressed? Yes. Frustrated? Yes. Want to pull my hair out?!?!?! YES. I've had an amazing day BUT too many things are overwhelming me at once.
1. I'm not with Lucas.
2. I don't know what I want to do with my life.
3. My current job
4. What I'm going to do this summer
5. My grades right now
1. This stresses me out everyday. EVERYDAY. It seems silly but I miss him. My heart is where he is. If this was anywhere but Berea, I wouldn't still be here. Knowing that I'm not even half way done with Berea yet.
2. I've researched. I've thought about it. I've haggled my brain, considered my strengths and weaknesses as well as what I'd enjoy and I just don't know! It's so frustrating. I know I have time but I want to know now so that I can get it done as soon as possible.
3. My position title and pay are messed up and I haven't been able to get it fixed.
4. I want to do a camp this summer, mostly for the money. I would REALLY like to do work in a hospital or something psychology related but those are much harder to find and much more competitive and I'm only a sophomore. I'm still gonna try to look but I'm not very confident about it.
5. I have low B's in Spanish and Anatomy and I don't currently know what my grade in Abnormal is. I'm working really hard... guess it's still not hard enough.
I just feel like I'm slowly dying out... losing my faith in my future and my abilities. It's just becoming too much to juggle. Maybe it's just that Spring semester hates me. I just need a break and a direction.
That's all of my rant and semi-breakdown to keep me from really breaking down.
On a positive note, I had a great time with the residents tonight. I got to spend 6 hours with some great people.
Goodnight.
1. I'm not with Lucas.
2. I don't know what I want to do with my life.
3. My current job
4. What I'm going to do this summer
5. My grades right now
1. This stresses me out everyday. EVERYDAY. It seems silly but I miss him. My heart is where he is. If this was anywhere but Berea, I wouldn't still be here. Knowing that I'm not even half way done with Berea yet.
2. I've researched. I've thought about it. I've haggled my brain, considered my strengths and weaknesses as well as what I'd enjoy and I just don't know! It's so frustrating. I know I have time but I want to know now so that I can get it done as soon as possible.
3. My position title and pay are messed up and I haven't been able to get it fixed.
4. I want to do a camp this summer, mostly for the money. I would REALLY like to do work in a hospital or something psychology related but those are much harder to find and much more competitive and I'm only a sophomore. I'm still gonna try to look but I'm not very confident about it.
5. I have low B's in Spanish and Anatomy and I don't currently know what my grade in Abnormal is. I'm working really hard... guess it's still not hard enough.
I just feel like I'm slowly dying out... losing my faith in my future and my abilities. It's just becoming too much to juggle. Maybe it's just that Spring semester hates me. I just need a break and a direction.
That's all of my rant and semi-breakdown to keep me from really breaking down.
On a positive note, I had a great time with the residents tonight. I got to spend 6 hours with some great people.
Goodnight.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Long time, no see
I've struggled with coming up with things to do the past several nights. Tonight, I decided I'd update my neglected blog. There's so many things that I should have put on here that I didn't. But, the important thing is that I'm here today to update and possibly vent a little.
First, I'm very excited that I think I might have figured out what I truly, in my heart, want to do with my life career-wise. I think I want to work in non-profit environments. I particularly want to working connecting the community to the non-profit. I love everything about 'giving back' and service. My job here at CELTS along with my other service and volunteer ventures have led me to this conclusion. I currently serve as the Program Manager of the Adopt-A-Grandparent program and although I've only been doing the job for 3 weeks today, I love everything about it. I love that I get to guide others and myself to provide opportunities for the Berea campus and the local residents of Berea. It's such a fulfilling position. I enjoy going to work even with all the stress from school. That's infinitely important to me personally.
Next, Lucas and I have set our tentative date to May 18, 2013. As of now it looks the most ideal date but we may have to do some minor changes because I can't miss my sister's graduation so we may push it back just a couple of weeks. I'm SUPER excited!! We haven't let many people know since we're not 100% sure about it but we'll get to that this summer when things slow down a bit. I'm soo ready. I think the thing that I struggle with here the most is not feeling needed by anyone. It's new. I never grew up having alone time. My siblings, parents, friends and boyfriend were always there keeping me busy and never leaving me a free second. My siblings most of all make it hard for me. We spent almost every free moment together at home and now often times I'm the one asking if someone has time for me. I'm adjusting though. Slowly, I'm gaining control of my emotions that seem to overreact about it. I've been thinking lately that this may also be time/sign that I'm able to turn my attention towards God and spend some time on him. What am I doing right now? Avoiding that. I must set goals to spend more time with Him or the Bible. That alone would probably do wonders for my some unstable emotions.
http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/comprehensive.php
Here's a 365 day reading plan for the Bible. Maybe I'll start trying to do this.
BUT, since I think I would prefer to read the New Testament first, I just on site that if you read 3 chapters a day, you will have read the New Testament in 3 months.
That means if I read 2 chapters per night I would finish it in a little over 4 months. Sounds like a plan to me! Think I'll stick with that reading plan. Now, when to start? I'll decide that later. Maybe tonight is I'm feeling froggy.
Now, to my classes this semester. Abnormal psychology is going to be a challenge. I'm a little, okay A LOT, nervous about it. No study guide=Megan freaking out. We'll see what happens next Monday. If I flunk that one then I'll be worried. Anatomy is exactly the same as last semester which is nice. Espanol es muy dificil. Mi nervousa porque mi profesora tiene muchas expectativas. I'm not sure is those sentences were completely correct, but you get the idea. As for psychology of women and gender? I REALLY like it. Wendy Williams is an awesome professor who makes her expectations very clear and understands that we have lives outside of her classroom.
Another thing, my summer of service is kicking my butt. I'm not too sure what I'm going to. I have applications to two camps in Nashville. I think it'd be fun but I really hope I have to stay at the camp during the week otherwise I don't know if I'm going to be able to do it because I'm not telling my parents that I'm staying there all summer. No way. Plus, I honestly don't want to until we are married. Weekends are one thing. A whole summer is a completely different story. I honestly wish I would do one here in Berea while taking a class. At least part of one, then do the other half elsewhere.
Goals for myself
-Continue my current workout with modifications if my back gets progressively worse
-Begin reading two chapters of the Bible per night OR 14 chapters per week which is the equivalent
-Maintain good grades, obviously
-Find ways to improve in my position as Program Manager. Possibly as for feedback from team members.
-Don't get comfort in my relationships. Keep pushing them so they'll prosper.
-Continue to write in this blog... or make one just for my Bible readings to help fulfill that goal.
Now, I must call my mommy. Be back when I can.
First, I'm very excited that I think I might have figured out what I truly, in my heart, want to do with my life career-wise. I think I want to work in non-profit environments. I particularly want to working connecting the community to the non-profit. I love everything about 'giving back' and service. My job here at CELTS along with my other service and volunteer ventures have led me to this conclusion. I currently serve as the Program Manager of the Adopt-A-Grandparent program and although I've only been doing the job for 3 weeks today, I love everything about it. I love that I get to guide others and myself to provide opportunities for the Berea campus and the local residents of Berea. It's such a fulfilling position. I enjoy going to work even with all the stress from school. That's infinitely important to me personally.
Next, Lucas and I have set our tentative date to May 18, 2013. As of now it looks the most ideal date but we may have to do some minor changes because I can't miss my sister's graduation so we may push it back just a couple of weeks. I'm SUPER excited!! We haven't let many people know since we're not 100% sure about it but we'll get to that this summer when things slow down a bit. I'm soo ready. I think the thing that I struggle with here the most is not feeling needed by anyone. It's new. I never grew up having alone time. My siblings, parents, friends and boyfriend were always there keeping me busy and never leaving me a free second. My siblings most of all make it hard for me. We spent almost every free moment together at home and now often times I'm the one asking if someone has time for me. I'm adjusting though. Slowly, I'm gaining control of my emotions that seem to overreact about it. I've been thinking lately that this may also be time/sign that I'm able to turn my attention towards God and spend some time on him. What am I doing right now? Avoiding that. I must set goals to spend more time with Him or the Bible. That alone would probably do wonders for my some unstable emotions.
http://www.biblegateway.com/resources/readingplans/comprehensive.php
Here's a 365 day reading plan for the Bible. Maybe I'll start trying to do this.
BUT, since I think I would prefer to read the New Testament first, I just on site that if you read 3 chapters a day, you will have read the New Testament in 3 months.
That means if I read 2 chapters per night I would finish it in a little over 4 months. Sounds like a plan to me! Think I'll stick with that reading plan. Now, when to start? I'll decide that later. Maybe tonight is I'm feeling froggy.
Now, to my classes this semester. Abnormal psychology is going to be a challenge. I'm a little, okay A LOT, nervous about it. No study guide=Megan freaking out. We'll see what happens next Monday. If I flunk that one then I'll be worried. Anatomy is exactly the same as last semester which is nice. Espanol es muy dificil. Mi nervousa porque mi profesora tiene muchas expectativas. I'm not sure is those sentences were completely correct, but you get the idea. As for psychology of women and gender? I REALLY like it. Wendy Williams is an awesome professor who makes her expectations very clear and understands that we have lives outside of her classroom.
Another thing, my summer of service is kicking my butt. I'm not too sure what I'm going to. I have applications to two camps in Nashville. I think it'd be fun but I really hope I have to stay at the camp during the week otherwise I don't know if I'm going to be able to do it because I'm not telling my parents that I'm staying there all summer. No way. Plus, I honestly don't want to until we are married. Weekends are one thing. A whole summer is a completely different story. I honestly wish I would do one here in Berea while taking a class. At least part of one, then do the other half elsewhere.
Goals for myself
-Continue my current workout with modifications if my back gets progressively worse
-Begin reading two chapters of the Bible per night OR 14 chapters per week which is the equivalent
-Maintain good grades, obviously
-Find ways to improve in my position as Program Manager. Possibly as for feedback from team members.
-Don't get comfort in my relationships. Keep pushing them so they'll prosper.
-Continue to write in this blog... or make one just for my Bible readings to help fulfill that goal.
Now, I must call my mommy. Be back when I can.
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